Digital switchover is the process of changing the UK’s television broadcasting to digital. Digital switchover will involve converting the current television broadcasting network, as well as encouraging everyone to convert or upgrade their TV, Aerials and recording equipment to receive digital television.
Why is digital switchover happening?
Already 3 in 4 of UK households have chosen to go digital, as Digital TV offers more choice and a better quality viewing experience. The Government wants everyone to enjoy the benefits of digital TV and key to this is to ensure that everyone has a greater choice of affordable digital TV options.
Today about 1 in 4 UK households cannot get the full range of digital TV services available free through an aerial, and 1 in 5 UK households cannot get channel Five through their aerial. Access to these services will increase after having a digital aerial fitted and after the digital switchover, so switchover will make it fairer for everyone.
Digital switchover will also help the UK continue as a world leader in broadcasting. It will ensure that today’s ageing terrestrial broadcasting network is replaced by the best available technology, digital.